Why Senators Didn’t Support Me During My Suspension, Says Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has opened up about why her colleagues in the Senate did not publicly support her during her six-month suspension from the National Assembly.

The senator made the revelation during the commissioning of a new market in Okene, Kogi State. She explained that fear of political persecution prevented many senators from showing open support during her suspension.

Natasha noted that while some senators reached out privately to express solidarity, they avoided public association with her because of potential political consequences. She emphasized that their caution was not a reflection of disloyalty, but a result of the pressures and risks inherent in Nigeria’s political environment.

Describing her suspension as illegal, Natasha said it exposed how fear and political intimidation shape behavior within government institutions. “When a government official faces challenges, isolation comes naturally. Even when people are sympathetic, they are afraid to associate with you openly for fear of being castigated or persecuted. Many senators stood by me quietly. They called, they visited, but in public they could not show it. I am not offended by that,” she explained.

The Kogi Central lawmaker was suspended for six months in March over a sex allegation involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The suspension left her in a difficult position, forcing her to navigate political isolation while maintaining her duties to her constituents. After completing her suspension, Senator Natasha returned to the Red Chamber in September, resuming her legislative responsibilities and continuing her work on issues affecting Kogi State.

Political analysts say Natasha’s experience highlights the challenges lawmakers face when navigating politically sensitive situations. It also underscores the complex interplay of loyalty, fear, and self-preservation within Nigeria’s legislative environment.

Despite the difficult period, Natasha expressed determination to continue serving her constituents and pursuing her legislative agenda. She urged politicians and public officials to prioritize principles over fear and to support colleagues facing unjust challenges.